Paris by..

Kasia Dietz is a handbag designer from New York, with a passion for art, travel and writing, who followed her heart (and an Italian) to Paris. She resides in the North Marais where she has been featured as a local designer by Lonely Planet and KLM’s iFly Magazine. Her handbags are available online and sold at fashionable boutiques around the world. You can read about her life and travels on her blog. Here, Kasia talks to MyOwnParis about her favourite places in the City of Light, and why they’re special to her.

(picture – Galerie Lazerew)
credit: 75.agendaculturel.fr

Gallery
For a few years I lived next door to Galerie Lazerew (14 Rue du Perche, 3rd arr.) and it quickly became a favourite, each exhibition proving a provocative look into the mind of an artist.

(Picture – Musee Rodin)
Credit: en.wikipedia.org

Museum
There are so many museums I could easily lose hours in! In the Winter months I love to carouse the halls of Musee D’Orsay as I’m a big fan of Impressionism. During summer months I opt for long sunlit evenings in the gardens of the Musee Rodin (79 Rue de Varenne, 7th arr.). And then there’s the Pompidou (Place Pompidou, 4th arr,) ideal for all seasons. And we can’t forget about the grandeur of the Louvre…

(Picture – Le Petit Marche)
credit: tripadvisor.com

Restaurant
One of the first restaurants I dined at upon moving to Paris, and still a favourite, is Le Petit Marché (9 Rue de Béarn, 3rd arr.), tasteful French cuisine (with a hint of Asian), just steps away from Place des Vosges.

(Picture – Merci)
credit: designdestinations.org

Clothes/Accessories
I adore stepping into Merci (111 Boulevard Beaumarchais, 3rd arr.) simply for the sensory indulgence. Not to mention the carefully curated selection of clothing and housewares.

And last but not least –
During my many strolls around the Marais, I discovered Village Saint Paul, a small enclave reminiscent of a French village, complete with cafes and antique shops. And just minutes away from the Seine, where I often stop to catch a glimpse of the sun as it sets behind Cathedral Notre Dame…